Question

What is the general electronic configuration of the lanthanides?

(a) (n-2)f ^1-14 (n-1)d ^1-10 ns^2

(b) (n-2)f ^1-14 (n-1)d ^1-2 ns^2

(c) (n-2)f ^1-14 (n-1)d ^0-1 ns^2

(d) (n-2)f ^1-14 (n-1)d ^0 ns^2

This question was posed to me in quiz.

Asked question is from D and F-Block Elements in chapter D and F-Block Elements of Chemistry – Class 12

Answer 1

Right option is (c) (n-2)f ^1-14 (n-1)d ^0-1 ns^2

Explanation: In lanthanides, the differentiating electron occupies 4f subshell and are rarely found on the earth’s crust, so called rare earths. The general electronic configuration of lanthanides is 6s^25d^0-14f^1-14.